Bible Figure
Jacob
in Genesis, a son of Isaac, also known as Israel; the patriarch of the Israelites
Jacob, later named Israel, was the son of Isaac and Rebekah, twin brother of Esau, husband of Leah and Rachel, and father of the ancestors of Israel's tribes.
Biography
Jacob was born grasping Esau's heel and later acquired Esau's birthright and, through Rebekah's deception, Isaac's principal blessing. Fleeing Esau, he encountered God at Bethel and received the patriarchal promises. In Haran he served Laban, married Leah and Rachel, and became father of a large household. Returning to Canaan, Jacob wrestled through the night with a mysterious divine figure and received the name Israel. He reconciled with Esau, endured the loss of Rachel and the apparent loss of Joseph, and eventually migrated to Egypt after discovering Joseph was alive. Near death he blessed Joseph's sons and then his own sons before being buried in the cave of Machpelah.
Biblical Significance
Jacob is one of Israel's three great patriarchs. His transformation from grasping younger brother to the man named Israel provides the personal origin of the nation's name, while God's repeated promises to him continue the Abrahamic covenant through the twelve-tribe family.